The British Government has announced the extension of its world-leading military training programme for Ukrainian soldiers, Operation INTERFLEX, on Ukraine’s Independence Day. The move reinforces the UK’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s Armed Forces as they continue to resist Russian aggression and prepare for a lasting peace.
Defence Secretary John Healey confirmed that Operation INTERFLEX will now run until at least the end of 2026. Over 50,000 Ukrainian recruits have already been trained in the UK, making it one of the largest programmes of its kind globally. Thirteen other nations are contributing to the initiative, which focuses on providing vital combat, leadership, and instructor training.
The training programme, originally a five-week basic combat course, has now been expanded to seven weeks. It also includes advanced courses in platoon and section command as well as instructor training, designed to boost Ukraine’s ability to independently train its future military leaders.
Boosting Capabilities and Cooperation
Recent survey data revealed that 93% of Ukrainian leadership trainees reported greater confidence in enhancing their troops’ combat effectiveness, while 83% felt better equipped to ensure survivability. Recruits highlighted the realistic nature of the training, which takes place in environments replicating battlefield conditions such as trenches, forests, and urban areas.
Healey said:
“The UK is united for Ukraine. We will continue to step up our support alongside allies, so that Ukraine can defend today and deter tomorrow. A secure Ukraine is a secure Europe.”
Support for Ukraine is also strengthening UK defence industries, with closer military-industrial cooperation creating jobs and bolstering British businesses.
UK and Allies Plan for Peace
Alongside training, the UK has pledged £4.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine this year — the largest package to date. This includes a £1.6 billion deal for more than 5,000 air defence missiles, supporting 900 UK jobs, and a record £350 million investment to deliver 100,000 drones to Ukraine by 2025.
Discussions on a potential peace deal are ongoing, with the UK and France leading a “Coalition of the Willing” to design multinational security guarantees for Ukraine. More than 200 military planners from 30 nations have participated in recent planning sessions.
Russian Losses Highlight Impact
Open-source data suggests Russia has lost over 4,000 battle tanks and more than double the number of armoured vehicles compared to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion. UK support has been key in helping Ukraine maintain momentum on the battlefield.
